April 21, 2021 | Bill Esler
Fenix, the almost exotic finish developed by Italy’s Arpa Industriale, continues to find new applications. Quickly adopted for U.S. distribution by Rehau, Fenix is basically a resinous coating made with nanoparticles, and cured by electron beam energy. This gives it a soft surface that is surprisingly durable, as well as resistant to fingerprints while self-healing minor scratches.
Made from paper layers and resins, Fenix is produced by Arpa in its own plant in Italy, and by Formica in Canada.
Now Elleci S.p.A. is converting a compatible material into sinks that match Fenix visually. It is a matte composite that is a blend of ceramic nanoparticles and six acrylic resins. The video (above) shows how to mount a sink into a work surface made of Fenix.
The special composite makes the sink more resistant to impacts and thermal shocks. Its smooth surface allows a rapid flow of water and creates a “lotus effect” that eases cleaning. The UV protection prevents the sink from discoloration effects over time.